MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series)
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MacBook Air (M1 series)
Starting at
£426.31£999.00 new
MacBook Air (M4 series)
Starting at
£967.50£999.00 newWhat's the difference between the MacBook Air (M1 series) and MacBook Air (M4 series)?
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the MacBook Air (M1 series) starts at £426.31, £541.19 less than the MacBook Air (M4 series). The MacBook Air (M4 series) is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
- The MacBook Air (M4 series) has more RAM: 16 GB vs 8 GB.
- The MacBook Air (M4 series) has a bigger screen: 15 inch vs 13 inch.
- Screen type: Retina display on the MacBook Air (M1 series), Liquid Retina Display on the MacBook Air (M4 series).
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) specs
The MacBook Air M1 series and M4 series differ mainly in performance, screen size, and audiovisual features. The M4 series offers a faster processor, more RAM, and a more powerful GPU, making it suitable for users who run demanding applications or multitask heavily. The M1 series provides larger storage options for those prioritising space. The M4 series has a larger and brighter screen with higher resolution, ideal for creative work or media enjoyment. Its audiovisual setup with a 1080p camera and four speakers suits video calls and media playback well. The M1 series keeps things simpler with smaller size and storage, fitting everyday tasks and portability needs.
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) price
Colour
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) battery life and software updates
Both MacBook Air models share similar scores in these areas, so durability depends more on your usage habits than on differences between the two.
Repairability Index
This suggests that both devices are designed to be similarly serviceable, which benefits users who value keeping their laptop in good condition over time.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) performance
Performance differences focus on processing power, memory, graphics, and storage. These factors affect what kind of tasks the MacBook Air can handle smoothly and how much data you can keep onboard.
Processor Speed and RAM
The MacBook Air M4 has a faster processor at 4.41 GHz and double the RAM at 16 GB, making it well suited for users running multiple apps simultaneously or heavier software. The M1's 3.2 GHz processor with 8 GB RAM is sufficient for everyday tasks like browsing, office work, and media consumption.
Graphic Performance
With a 10-core GPU, the M4 series offers enhanced graphics performance compared to the M1's 7-core GPU. This benefits users who work with graphic design, video editing, or gaming that demands more visual processing power.
Storage Capacity
The M1 series provides larger storage with up to 1 TB available in stock models, including options up to 2 TB. The M4 series currently stocks up to 1 TB but includes a 512 GB model as standard. Buyers who store large files or media locally may prefer the M1 for its higher storage capacity options.
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MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) screen
Screen quality differs in size, brightness, and resolution. These aspects influence how much workspace you have and how vivid and clear images appear on each MacBook Air.
Screen Size and Resolution
The M4 series features a 15 inch Liquid Retina Display with a resolution of 2880 by 1864 pixels. This larger, sharper screen offers more room for multitasking and detailed visuals, ideal for creative professionals or media viewers. The M1's 13 inch Retina display at 2560 by 1600 is more compact, fitting users who need portability and a clear picture without extra screen real estate.
Brightness and Display Type
With 500 nits brightness, the M4's screen is brighter than the M1's 400 nits, improving visibility in well-lit environments. The Liquid Retina technology on the M4 provides a different panel experience compared to the M1's Retina display, which may affect colour vibrancy and contrast subtly.
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Resolution
Retina
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Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) camera
Audiovisual features include cameras and speakers, which impact video calls and media playback quality. Differences here affect how you experience communication and entertainment.
Front Camera
The MacBook Air M4 has a 1080p front camera, delivering higher resolution video for clearer, sharper video calls. The M1's 720p camera remains suitable for everyday video chats but offers a lower image quality.
Speakers
With a four-speaker sound system, the M4 series provides richer and more immersive audio. The M1's stereo speakers are capable but more basic, fitting users focused on standard media playback or casual listening.
Front camera definition
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) size and design
Additional features include connectivity, charging options, weight, and other usability factors that can influence daily convenience and device handling.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The M4 series supports Bluetooth 5.3 while the M1 series uses Bluetooth 5.0. Both models include Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connections for most users.
Charger Compatibility
The M4 supports both MagSafe 3 and USB Type-C charging, offering more flexibility for power options. The M1 charges via USB Type-C only, which suits those who prefer a simpler setup.
Weight
The M1 weighs 1290 g, making it lighter and potentially easier to carry throughout the day. The M4 weighs 1510 g, reflecting its larger screen and added features, which might suit users prioritising screen size over portability.
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Display
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Touch bar
Usb typec thunderbolt 4 ports
Usba port
Usbc port
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Wifi technology
MacBook Air (M1 series) or MacBook Air (M4 series): which should you buy?
Buy the MacBook Air (M1 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £426.31, £541.19 less than the MacBook Air (M4 series)
- you want a lighter build (1290 g vs 1510 g)
Buy the MacBook Air (M4 series) if
- you want more RAM (16 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (15 inch vs 13 inch)
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) FAQs
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Air (M4 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The MacBook Air (M4 series) has more RAM: 16 GB vs 8 GB. The MacBook Air (M4 series) has a bigger screen: 15 inch vs 13 inch.
The MacBook Air (M1 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £426.31 compared with £967.50 for the MacBook Air (M4 series).
The MacBook Air (M4 series) adds more RAM (16 GB vs 8 GB) and a bigger screen (15 inch vs 13 inch). Refurbished, it costs £541.19 more (from £967.50 vs £426.31).
Refurbished, the MacBook Air (M1 series) comes in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB, and the MacBook Air (M4 series) in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
